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Miller Lecture Series

Named in honor of former Georgia Governor and U.S. Senator Zell B. Miller, ’51, an alumnus and Lifetime Trustee of the College, the Miller Lecture Series was established in 1975 with a contribution from Miss Edna Heren, a former YHC English professor and mentor of Gov. Miller. This annual lecture that focuses on Georgia topics is supported by proceeds from the sale of Gov. Miller’s book, “The Mountains Within Me,” and by gifts from his friends. Gov. Miller chose Hal Gulliver, former editor of the Atlanta Journal Constitution, to present the first Miller Lecture in 1978.

Past Lectures

Bob Short, '51, 2015

Short referenced his "Reflections on Georgia Politics" oral history collection to detail game-changing moments in Georgia politics. Referred to by former YHC President Cathy Cox as "the most effective politician who was never elected to office," Short's impressive career spans more than 50 years.

Short served as campaign manager for President Jimmy Carter’s gubernatorial campaign in 1966 and later as press secretary for President Carter’s opponent, Lester Maddox. He was appointed regional director of the Office of Emergency Preparedness by President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Mr. Short began his career as a sports writer and columnist for the Atlanta Journal Constitution, but segued into state politics by serving in various capacities in the administrations of Governors Marvin Griffin, Ernest Vandiver, and Carl Sanders. He also served as special assistant to U.S. Senators Zell Miller, ’51, and Johnny Isakson.

Short is also the author of "Everything is Pickrick," a biography of Lester Maddox, for which he was honored as Author of the Year by the Georgia Writers Association.